China Going Global – in Africa

Project

By improving evidence, building capacity and fostering joint actions for sustainable investment in Africa's natural resources, we promote China-Africa relations that benefit the economy, poor communities and the environment.

Research rooted in grassroots fieldwork – both in Africa and China – is key to IIED's China-Africa work. We carry out research in the forests of the Congo Basin, rural farming communities in East Africa and the bustling markets in African capital cities.

In China, we work directly with policymakers, academics, NGO practitioners and journalists who are reshaping the policy framework for China's overseas engagement.

Africa-China Informal Resources Trade research project: Examining the social and environmental implications of small-scale investments and trade by the Chinese (and others) in Africa's informal economy – specifically in agriculture, mining and timber trade in Eastern and South-east Africa. Read a backgrounder or watch a short video.